Homeowner Advice Archives | Better Place Design & Build

How Many ADUs Can You Have on Your Property in California?

'admin' — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 00:00:30 +0000

As ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units) grow in popularity, many homeowners see them as a way to boost rental income, enhance property value, or reimagine unused space. But what if you already have one secondary unit or want to add more ADUs to your lot? Under California law, a single-family property can typically include one ADU plus one Junior ADU (JADU), each with its own size limitations and distinct requirements that can impact property plans. Meanwhile, SB 1211 has paved the way for additional ADUs on multifamily properties—up to eight in some cases.

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ADU Manufactured Homes in San Diego: Are They Right for You?

'admin' — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 20:45:13 +0000

Especially as new laws and regulations make the building of accessory dwelling units easier, many homeowners in San Diego County are considering whether an ADU is possible with their lot and budget. For those concerned with construction budget, manufactured ADUs may be an attractive choice initially when compared with traditional construction, because they can provide additional space for a lower cost. There are other key factors to consider with these manufactured units, though, when it comes to building permits, durability, and ROI.

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Title 24 ADU Requirements

'admin' — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 00:03:42 +0000

While the state of California offers certain fee waivers and tax incentives to build ADUs, it doesn’t provide leniency to homeowners when it comes to Title 24 (energy efficiency) requirements. Property owners building any kind of residential unit are expected to follow Title 24 guidelines regarding solar panel installation, insulation, and lighting. While these requirements do have an initial cost, they often more than make up for it on the “backend,” providing homeowners with better air quality and lower energy costs.

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ADU Tax Credit: What You Need to Know

'admin' — Thu, 20 Feb 2025 23:15:40 +0000

Does building an ADU offer property owners relief on their taxes? Not necessarily. Simply building an ADU on your property doesn’t entitle you to tax credits by California law, though lawmakers have lessened the impact of ADUs on your property taxes, and using an ADU as a source of rental income or a dedicated home office does entitle you to certain write-offs during tax season. While this article will provide an overview of ADU tax write-offs as they pertain to utilities, maintenance costs, and insurance, a tax professional will be able to provide you with the most comprehensive information based on your specific situation.

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ADU Permit Cost in San Diego

'admin' — Fri, 14 Feb 2025 20:37:36 +0000

Building an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) in San Diego involves permit costs ranging from $9,000 to $20,000, influenced by factors such as unit size and whether it’s a new build or a conversion. Recent California legislation mandates a 60-day maximum for permit application approval, streamlining the process. Understanding these costs and the local zoning regulations is crucial for efficient planning and successful project execution.

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ADU Plumbing Cost: An In-depth Guide

'admin' — Fri, 14 Feb 2025 00:35:59 +0000

After working with hundreds of customers, we understand that the last thing any property owner wants in a construction project is surprises—especially when it comes to unexpected expenses. If you’re thinking about adding an accessory dwelling unit to your backyard, before you can dig into the construction process or explore your financing options, you’ll want to first understand your project size and your project cost.

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Can an HOA Prevent an ADU?

'admin' — Mon, 03 Feb 2025 18:42:07 +0000

If you’re part of a homeowners association and considering building an accessory dwelling unit on your property, it’s key to consider any rules your HOA may have about ADUs, along with your city’s building codes and ordinances. While California law prevents HOAs from banning ADUs outright, it does allow them to place certain restrictions when it comes to appearance and exterior design, placement on the lot, and overall size.

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What is a Casita?

'admin' — Fri, 31 Jan 2025 16:49:56 +0000

A casita, meaning “little house” in Spanish, is a small, detached accessory dwelling unit (ADU) typically found behind a main residence, most commonly in the Southwest, including Southern California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. Usually under 800 square feet, casitas serve as versatile living spaces for in-law suites, rental units, or guest accommodations. Unlike a pool house, which is primarily for recreation, a casita includes a full kitchen and bathroom, making it a fully functional home. While traditionally Spanish-style, casitas can take on any architectural design and are considered ADUs regardless of style.

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Legal Bedroom Requirements in California

'admin' — Fri, 10 Jan 2025 22:04:35 +0000

If you’re adding an accessory dwelling unit to your backyard or turning unused space in your existing home into a junior accessory dwelling unit, know that there are building codes related to minimum requirements for bedrooms. This is especially important if you plan on using the space as a rental unit or granny flat. If your bedroom space doesn’t meet the legal requirements, it won’t pass the permitting process or the final inspection and won’t be able to generate rental income or comfortably house aging parents.

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Prefab ADUs: Pros and Cons

'admin' — Wed, 08 Jan 2025 18:31:35 +0000

Prefab ADUs, also known as modular ADUs, are accessory dwelling units constructed off-site and assembled on-site, offering a distinct alternative to traditional ground-up or site-built ADUs. Prefab construction can be a cost-effective option due to reduced design and labor expenses, making it an appealing choice for budget-conscious homeowners. However, if your goal is to maximize rental income or significantly increase your property’s overall value, a customized site-built ADU may offer greater long-term potential and financial benefits.

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